Below is Psalm 46, a song of complete trust in God, particularly during times of crisis. This psalm was a favorite of Luther's, and the basis of one of his most beloved and powerful hymns. On Sunday, we'll sing that beautiful, traditional hymn, A Mighty Fortress Is Our God to open our 10:30 am worship service. Come on Sunday, join in with us!
1 God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling.
4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
He utters His voice, the earth melts.
7 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
how He has brought desolations on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
He burns the chariots with fire.
10 “Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!”
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
"Be still" These two simple words can speak to us in many ways; today they remind me of my grandmother Bernhardt. My siblings and I would frequently spend a week at Grandpa and Grandma's house, and I remember her speaking these words to my brothers and I in a commanding tone. Be still! As young boys are apt to do, we were not being still during nap-time and needed some correction. Grandmother was really saying "Be quiet and lie still!
Today, we can hear in these two words our heavenly Father's gifts of calm and comfort. This was the psalmist's intent; he reminds us of who God is, and his mighty power over all things. Because God loves his children, we shouldn't cower in fear, but rather be encouraged, calmed, and comforted. So today, "Be still" and think about the God who created and controls the entire universe and all things. "Be still" and know He loves you, He cares for you, and He has redeemed you, making you holy and perfect in His sight by the blood of Jesus! Amen!
Pilgrim Lutheran Church, LCMS Burton, Michigan
office: 810.744.1188
We are Pilgrims with a Purpose:
Sharing God’s Love & Mercy with Each Other & the World.
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